The Most Mind-Blowing Historical Facts You Won't Believe Are Real

This Is What Adolf Hitler’s Real Family Name Should Have Been

Did you know that a witness of Abraham Lincoln's assassination lived long enough to able to tell the tale on live TV? Records have been broken, the craziest coincidences have occurred, and some of the bravest actions have been undertaken, and it is a privilege to be able to witness them today, thanks to extensive historical records and even first-hand accounts in some instances.

It is time to look back on some of the most spectacular achievements, closest calls and mind-boggling historical facts human history has to offer us (thanks to this Reddit thread).

The Advancements Of The Eastern Front

America Almost Nuked Itself

“The United States Air Force accidentally dropped two hydrogen bombs (each with a payload of over 4 megatons of TNT) over North Carolina in 1961 one of which was armed and battle ready. All trigger mechanisms worked as designed except one basic low voltage switch which didn't move and prevented a nuclear catastrophe.“stevenmchill001

Kamikaze

“The word Kamikaze (used during World War 2 for Japanese Suicide Bombers) means "divine wind" in Japanese. The original Kamikaze was when the Mongols sent a huge invasion force to Japan. The Japanese would have been thoroughly defeated, but both times the Mongols tried to invade, a hurricane swept down and destroyed the Mongol fleet. The Japanese named this wind, "Kamikaze".”

Southern Hospitality

“The first engagement between the two armies (The First Battle of Bull Run) occurred in Wilmer McLean's front yard in Mannasas, VA. (Although there were other instances prior which some people claim to be the real beginning of the war). But General Lee did sign the surrender in this same man's parlor in Appomattox, VA where he had moved to try and avoid any more of the war.”

Adolf Schicklgruber

“Adolf Hitler's last name should have been Schicklgruber not Hitler.

His father was illegitimate and went by his mothers name for most of his life. He took his fathers name, Hitler, very late in life. So the third reich could have been lead to Adolf Schicklgruber, which would make the chants slightly awkward, as Heil Schicklgruber doesnt have the same ring to it.”